My favourite thing in the world, apart from good food and drink, is shopping. So it comes as no surprise that I have eyed a fabulous array of clothing in the January sales that are simply must-have pieces. However, if you are a savvy sale shopper then you will know that it’s all about wading through the re-hashed seasonal stuff (yes all shops end up cracking out items that are 4/5 seasons old amidst the new) to find those few ‘gold-dust’ classic pieces that will last you the test of time i.e. a classic shift dress, smart blazer and your favourite skinny jeans. Aside from this if you are really clever and fashion forward then you will spot those rare items that you know are perfect for the season ahead.
Mine has come in the form of a skirt courtesy of designer Emma Cook from Cocosa.com. This silk layered skirt in black and white comes with remnants of sea shells and bubbles; perfect for the aquatic theme which swept through the majority of shows last September for Spring/Summer 2012 and which was seen at Holly Fulton, Mary Katrantzou, Versace, Chanel and Alexander McQueen amongst others.
Alongside this was a flurry of deep blue hues from midnight to sapphire and beyond as shown at Armani, Yves Saint Laurent and Victoria Beckham. If you are keen on keeping a demure profile opt for these shades in a silk, satin or lace tops, skirts and dresses which which should flow perfectly as you walk through the office or as you hit the dance floor on a night out. My favourite is a Notte by Marchesa evening dress from Net-a-porter.com reduced from £575 to £287.50.
Lastly the spring/summer 2012 catwalks were full, as you would imagine, of clashing prints, lace and exploding floral content. You can find these sorts of prints and materials everywhere so try not to be a wall flower and opt for an exciting new print that flatters your shape and complexion. Start by looking through high street stores such as Topshop, Dorothy Perkins and Zara, but if you want to splurge then head to TheOutnet.com for some series retail therapy and purchase something like this fabulous Aztec inspired print top from Diane von Furstenberg (was £445 now £178).
Stylist-at-large 